waat6 tit3 lou4滑鐵盧滑铁卢
Jyutpingwaat6 tit3 lou4
Yalewaaht tit lòuh
Definition
A disastrous defeat; to meet one's Waterloo.
neutralother
How it's used
Borrowing from the historical Battle of Waterloo, this term functions as a sophisticated metaphor for a total, often unexpected, failure. It is frequently used in formal reporting or slightly dramatic storytelling to describe someone who has lost their reputation or competitive edge. While it carries a literary weight, it is perfectly acceptable in everyday conversation when emphasizing the scale of a setback.
Examples
He suffered a crushing defeat in the exam this time.
Related words
Common phrases
to suffer a crushing defeat
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe minor inconveniences or small mistakes. It specifically implies a final, decisive defeat that marks the end of a streak or a project.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
